& Barbuda is ramping up efforts to increase food production and reduce reliance on imports, with the government investing $4 million from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) to enhance agricultural infrastructure.
Speaking on Pointe FM, Prime Minister Gaston Browne outlined the urgency of food security, noting that supply chain disruptions could leave supermarket shelves empty within days. “We must take food security seriously. If for any reason shipments to Antigua & Barbuda are delayed, we could face shortages. That is why we are prioritizing agricultural expansion,” he said.
The government’s agricultural expansion strategy includes:
New infrastructure: A modern abattoir and a dedicated poultry processing facility to boost local meat and poultry production.
Improved irrigation & water catchment: New water storage systems and dams will help farmers sustain crops, especially during droughts.
Upgraded feeder roads & land preparation support: Farmers will receive assistance with land clearing and plowing through new equipment provided to the Ministry of Agriculture.
Support for local farmers: Access to financing, technology, and training will be expanded to increase food production.
Browne confirmed that his administration is working closely with Minister of Agriculture Anthony Smith to expand farming initiatives and ensure that investments are directed toward sustainable projects.
He said these efforts align with the regional goal of cutting food imports by 25% by 2025, as set by CARICOM. “Our aim is to make Antigua & Barbuda more self-sufficient and reduce our vulnerability to external shocks,” he said.
